Carer’s Allowance is a benefit for people who regularly spend at least 35 hours a week caring for a person who receives:
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance care component at the middle or higher rate
- Personal Independence Payment daily living component
- Adult Disability Payment daily living component
- Armed Forces Independence payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance of £83.04 or more paid with an Industrial Injuries Disablement, War or Disablement Pension under the War Pension scheme
It is £76.75 per week and is taxable. If you are working, you cannot be earning more than £139.00 net per week. Carer’s Allowance has a complicated relationship with other benefits as it is treated as overlapping with some other benefits. This particularly affects people who receive a State Pension.
A claim for Carer’s Allowance can also reduce the benefits of the person you are caring for so you should get advice before applying. In Scotland people who receive Carer’s Allowance also receive a 6 monthly top up payment of Carers Allowance Supplement which is paid automatically by Social Security Scotland.
To claim Carer’s Allowance contact the Carer’s Allowance unit on 0800 731 0297 and ask for a claim form or visit www.gov.uk.carers-allowance.
For more information visit: Age Scotland – Carer’s Allowance guide April 2023
